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“Gaming is my freedom and escape”

As an avid gamer, Danielle shares how gaming opens a world of possibilities for her, about the adaptive controllers she’s found that make her hobby easier, and why Game On is a such a great way to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy UK.

A women playing on her computer using a controller

I have SMA type two and live in Manchester with my mum and crazy Jack Russell, Poppy. I’m dependent on others to help me do most things, and there’s a lot of things I can’t do, like go for a ‘walk’ on my own. But gaming gives me a sense of freedom and a place to escape.

Gaming is more than a hobby for many disabled people

I got my first PlayStation for Christmas when I was five, and that’s where it all began. I enjoy a wide range of games depending on what mood I’m in. I still love to play some of my childhood favourites, like Crash Bandicoot. I also enjoy action and adventure gaming, role playing games (RPGs), multiplayer and simulator games. There’s not much I won’t play!

But it’s more than a hobby for me. Gaming gives me a sense of freedom that I really don’t experience from anything else. As I’m physically dependent on other people in real life, it’s a way that I can turn off and escape. I often get the urge to go for a walk by myself but it’s not safe for me to do so. In a game I can go anywhere. Sometimes I find myself in open world games just walking around and enjoying being by myself.

PlayStation’s Access Controller has been a game changer – literally

My arms get tired quite easily, so fatigue can be an issue, especially in fast paced games or when you need to hit buttons quickly in a set order. PlayStation released an Access Controller in December last year and it’s been an absolute gamer change – literally!

Gaming controller

Since getting the access controller, I’ve been able to return to games I’d previously abandoned due to accessibility. The controller has so many options built in which you can customise for different games. You can easily switch between set ups (profiles) with the press of a button, which is great as I don’t need help to physically change anything. It’s quite affordable and has opened up so many new games for me. I’d recommend giving it a go to anyone who struggles with standard controllers.  

Game On – a fun way to fundraise

I think the Game On fundraiser is brilliant. Gaming is something that everyone can get involved in and is a great way to raise money for those of us who can’t participate in traditional fundraising events like running races. Gaming can be really good for your mental health. It’s also a great way to relax with your friends without the limitations that might make physically hanging out difficult. So why wouldn’t you want to raise money while doing something you can enjoy? I plan to get involved myself!

I share all my gaming adventures and achievements on my twitter profile. If anybody wants to see what I’m up to, my handle is @DanielleMaycoxx.

Find out more about the PlayStation Access Controller here.

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